Selecting, Growing, and Using Lavender

A Guide to Lavender Species and Hybrids, with Growing Instructions

Dec 20, 2008

With its luscious fragrance and many uses, lavender is beloved by all. But the different varieties can be confusing. Here is a guide to set you straight.

According to Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs (Rodale Press, 1987), the taxonomy of lavender species is snarled and confused, and the same species may referred to by different names. Lavender species do not usually come true from seed, which can further complicate the issue.

Guide to Lavender Species and Hybrids

Beautiful Easy Herbs by Lawrence Sombke (1997, Rodale Home and Garden Books) sets some guidelines. Generally, the lavender known as English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), or common lavender, is the hardiest and also has the most desirable perfume. French and Spanish lavenders (Lavandula dentata and Lavandula stoechas, respectively) may not survive north of zone 9, but the plants are very attractive and are worth trying as container plants.

Among the hybrids of Lavendula angustifolia, or English lavender, are 'Hidcote', with dark bluish purple flowers and a height of 12-18 inches, 'Lady', with light purple flowers and a size of 8-10 inches, and 'Munstead', with purple flowers and a height of 18 inches. It is also possible to find white ('Alba' and 'Nana Alba') and pink-flowered ('Jean Davis', 'London Pink', and 'Rosea') hybrids of English lavender.

Growing Lavender

Growing lavender from seed is a slow and tricky process, and lavenders don't always come true from seed, so it's best to purchase the plants you want. Lavender needs a well-drained position in full sun, and prefers a light, lean soil. If your soil is acidic you should use lime to correct the pH. Exotic Herbs, by Carole Saville (Holt, 1997) recommends 1 cup of dolomitic lime per plant.

If you are having trouble growing lavender, it is likely that you are killing it with kindness. In most parts of the United States, lavender does not need extra water or food, and may grow poorly or succumb to fungal diseases in a location that is too moist or in a soil that is too rich or too heavy. If your soil is heavy clay, add sand to lighten it.

To propagate lavender, Rodales Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs (referenced above) recommends removing small side shoots, with a piece of older wood attached. Root the shoots in moist, sandy soil in a protected location such as a cold frame and plant them out when they are 1 year old.

Using Lavender

Using lavender: Lavender is an essential ingredient in the French herb blend known as Herbes de Provence. It complements strong-flavored meats like lamb, and is also used in various desserts and confections. It makes an excellent tea when combined with rosemary. Its craft uses include making potpourri, sachets, and lavender wands. It can be used in homemade cosmetic products and is especially nice in the bath. It is also reputed to have medicinal uses, but the scientific data is not yet complete.

However you use your lavender, you'll find it one of the most pleasant and easy-to-grow herbs available. Once you've tried growing your own, you'll never want to be without it.

The copyright of the article Selecting, Growing, and Using Lavender in Perennial Plants is owned by J. E. Carpenter. Permission to republish Selecting, Growing, and Using Lavender in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.